Whistler Wines

Whistler Wines not only is the most child friendly winery that we have been to in the Barossa, it also makes lovely wine. Named after the family name of the owners Pfeiffer (which is a German noun and translates to whistler). It's very much a family run and family centred operation. Co-owner Chris explained to us that as their own children grew up living in the winery they wanted them to have things to play with whilst they were working and it all grew from there. With their own children now grown up, they are responsible for the day to day running of the winery. 

The winery is well located off the picturesque Seppletsfield Road. As you approach the entrance to the winery you are greated by a welcoming family cut out silhouette. Made from corrugated iron this is a style that continues throughout the cellar door. 

Parking is right by the cellar door and there are no troublesome steps to negotiate. 

Once inside we made our way straight to the tasting bar. Whistler produce three ranges, Premium Wines, Estate Range and Barossa Range. The wines are excellent value and my husband particularly enjoyed the Riesling. He purchased a bottle of the Albert Heinrich Shiraz for us to enjoy together at home. There is also a selection of tasty goods from neighbouring properties such as Maggie Beer's Farm shop on sale for those wishing to make their own picnic up to enjoy with a bottle or two in the grounds!

I always appreciate it when the cellar door has a toy area close to the tasting area. My son was in element making his way through the bucket of toys, at least until a tour bus arrived and he had to share his new found favourites! As there was so much else to do this was not an issue. The winery produces a handy leaflet 'Family Fun @ Whistler Wines' which includes a word find and Barossa I spy game to keep older kids entertained and tips on family things to do in the Barossa. There is even a treasure hunt and marked family walks on site too.

After a quick visit to the changing facilities we made our way outside to have a look around. 

Not only is there the usual cellar door outdoor favourites but there's a mini cricket wicket and playground too. I wondered how many 6's the onsite Roos have managed to catch of the years!

Access to the Kangaroos is via a locked gate so be sure to ask at the cellar door if you want to meet the resident bouncy friends. If it's quiet in the cellar door one of the team will be more than happy to take you and your family inside the enclosure.

After such a fun filled stop our elder son was certainly bouncing all the way to the car!

If you are coming to the Barossa Gourmet Weekend with kids, I'd make this cellar door one of your stops. Indeed if events are your thing then look out for some of the others that Whistler stage on Australia Day, Easter Sunday, June long weekend and October long weekend.

Chris and his wife Jayne even offer accomodation at their home Whistler Farm - www.whistlerfarm.com.au. I imagine their tastings would be great fun!

Excitingly for all our friends and family located in Wales UK you can buy Whistler wines in Mumbles Fine Wines. A mixed case will set you back £98 for six bottles!

241 Seppeltsfield Road, Marananga, Barossa Valley, South Australia, 5355

www.whistlerwines.com

Tel: 8562 4942